JACKMAN — Maine’s big game hunting seasons are months away, but the state is starting the process of accepting applications for the moose hunt.

The Maine moose hunt typically draws tens of thousands of applicants for a couple thousand permits. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife intends to open the application process for this year’s hunt in late January or early February.

The state will take the applications until the end of the day on May 14. Maine no longer accepts paper applications, and all of the applying takes place online.

The Maine moose populations face numerous threats, including parasites and warming temperatures. However, the state boosted the number of moose permit applications last year from 2,500 to 2,820.

The hunt takes place every fall and is preceded by a moose festival and lottery. This year’s lottery is scheduled for June 13 in Jackman.